Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of airport technology, the introduction of CUSS 2.0 has sparked excitement and anticipation among developers, airlines, and passengers alike. With a host of new features and improvements, CUSS 2.0 promises to streamline operations, enhance user experience, and provide a more seamless travel journey for all.

Let’s take a closer look.

Background

IATA is actively driving advancements in airport technology by introducing CUSS 2.0, a revolutionary approach that promotes global Common Use standards to facilitate improved collaboration and interoperability among industry stakeholders. By adopting standardized practices, airports can enhance efficiency and productivity without the need for costly infrastructure expansions, while also simplifying integration with airline platform providers.

Moving forward, airports will increasingly prioritize automation to optimize operations and proactively address potential challenges. Common use standards are expected to play a vital role in expanding airport capacity in the coming years.

CUSS 1.5 toolkit: Existing toolkit for apps and Embross CORE applications

When looking at the existing CUSS 1.5 toolkit, it’s clear that there have been significant advancements in simplifying JS functions and callbacks for operation. However, there is still a level of complexity in dealing with CORBA/IDL/Legacy Architecture that can be cumbersome for developers. Additionally, the presence of local files can present challenges in terms of consistency and security.

CUSS 2.0: A Giant Leap Forward

The introduction of CUSS 2.0 represents a significant leap forward in airport technology. With plumbing for OAuth and the abstraction of the WS API, developers can now focus on utilizing the same functions and callbacks across different applications. The flexibility to run one app on varying platforms eliminates the need for separate code sets, making development more efficient and streamlined.

The ratification of the CUSS 2.0 Specification by ATSB marks a crucial milestone in the development of this technology. With the impending release of the Developer Guide and the ongoing testing of CUSS Test Apps by key vendors, the stage is set for a successful rollout to the community in January 2025.

What are the expected benefits of CUSS 2.0?

According to IATA, CUSS 2.0 is poised to revolutionize airport technology with its incorporation of cutting-edge Web Technologies such as OpenAPI, Oauth2, HTML5, JSON, TLS > 1.2, and WebSocket technologies, empowering Web Developers to seamlessly integrate CUSS applications. In addition to embracing these advanced technologies, CUSS 2.0 boasts compliance with essential standards like Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring adherence to current payment, privacy, and security regulations.

Upholding the core tenets of “Security by Design,” CUSS 2.0 prioritizes secure technologies, efficiently supporting contactless requirements through the integration of Handheld Devices and seamless compatibility with a variety of portable electronic devices such as tablets and mobile phones. By enabling better compatibility with modern technologies and facilitating shorter release cycles, CUSS 2.0 stands to deliver substantial cost savings in implementation and maintenance, underscoring its pivotal role as a game-changer in the realm of airport technology.

Embross CUSS 2.0 fully complies with the latest IATA standards, ensuring that your airline operates at the forefront of technological advancement. With faster check-in times and a smoother process, passengers will appreciate the convenience and efficiency of Embross CUSS 2.0.

Product Release and Production Rollouts

The MVP release of the Embross CUSS 2.0 Platform and Toolkit is scheduled for September 2024, followed by client POC and development verification from September to December. Limited station and airline rollouts are planned for Q1 2025, with expanded features and updates to be implemented throughout the year.

Migration and planning

The migration from CUSS 1.x to CUSS 2.0 requires active involvement from partner airlines and stations. Planning is crucial to ensure a smooth transition in 2026, with early adopters encouraged to participate in development work and testing. It is essential to budget for application refresh and prepare for expected station-level POC operations.

Execution and beyond

As stations go live with CUSS 2.0, it is important to be prepared for full production and potential holdovers. Exploring new ways to leverage the capabilities of CUSS 2.0, such as agent tablets, mobile apps, and touchless systems, can enhance operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction.

Timelines:

Mid-2024: CUSS 2.0 technical specification release.
January 2026: CUSS 1.x platforms are discontinued.

Conclusion

With CUSS 2.0 on the horizon, the future of airport technology looks brighter than ever. By embracing this innovation and actively participating in the migration process, airlines and stations can unlock new possibilities for enhanced customer experiences and streamlined operations.

Embross provides the CUSS platform and application for self-service check-in solutions which complies IATA RP 1706 C for CUSS and the latest IATA technical specification. For more information on how to implement CUSS technology at your airport, contact a member of our expert team eps@embross.com

Author: Omar Abbasi, Marketing Manager